POST-DOCTORAL POSITION AT SRI INTERNATIONAL IN ARC-JET FLOW FIELD
CHARACTERIZATION
The Molecular Physics Laboratory (MPL) of SRI International is searching
for well-qualified candidates for a post-doctoral position in
experimental characterization of weakly-ionized supersonic air plasma
flows. These flows are produced in a laboratory-scale arc-jet facility
that is being retrofit for testing ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC)
composite materials. UHTC materials are under active investigation by
the United States Air Force and NASA for leading-edge applications on
hypersonic flight vehicles. The work involves characterizing the plasma
flow field in the free-stream and the vicinity of test specimens, using
laser-based and emission spectroscopic techniques to determine flow
velocities, temperatures, and composition. This information is crucial
for correlating material performance with a well-understood test
environment, and provides essential information for developing coupled
computational fluid dynamic and materials response models.
SRI International is a not-for-profit contract research organization,
located in Menlo Park, California, in the San Francisco Bay area. SRI
International is one of the largest such establishments in the world,
with active research programs in the fields of chemistry, physics,
engineering, materials science, life sciences, computer sciences, and
education, as well as a variety of other disciplines. The MPL has an
international reputation for creative and innovative research in
combustion chemistry, surface science, plasma research, molecular beam
research, atmospheric chemistry, and laser-based diagnostics.
The candidate should have a Ph.D. degree in physics, chemistry,
engineering, or materials science, and the ability to effectively
communicate research results through technical writing and oral
presentation. Hands-on laboratory experience is required, particularly
in the operation and maintenance of laser systems. The candidate’s
background should include some experience using laser-based species
detection schemes or emission spectroscopic techniques for probing
plasma, combustion or reactive systems. Other valuable skills would
include, experience with materials testing and characterization, a
background in supersonic fluid dynamics and associated modeling issues,
and familiarity with PC-based data acquisition and control systems
(e.g., LabView).
The appointment is for a minimum of one year, with a second year
normally being available upon mutual agreement. A resume and three
letters of recommendation should be sent to:
Dr. Jochen Marschall
SRI International
Menlo Park CA, 94025
Ph: (650) 859-2667; Fax: (650) 859-6196
Email: [log in to unmask]
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